After several months on the road, LA multi-instrumentalist Sasamireturned home to adoring, moshing fans for one last show at The Teragram Ballroom last week. With support from theorist, poet, and DJ Mandy Harris Williams; Staten Island punks Jigsaw Youth; and IE powerviolence up-and-comers Zulu, it was a heavy night that proved just how alive-and-kicking rock music is today.
Zulu’s unforgettable performance proved them to be one of the most electrifying new groups not just locally, but in the punk scene at large. Led by front-person Anaiah Lei’s unbridled energy and bellowing screams, the five-piece band commanded the crowd in a headbanging, frenzied pit with rippers like “Straight From Da Tribe of Tha Moon” and “Now They Are Through With Me.” A dynamic force in the SoCal hardcore scene, guitarist Braxton Marcellous’s magnetic showmanship kept everyone raging. We’re already on pins and needles waiting for the next time they shake us to our cores.
Surrounded by her cloaked, kilt-clad cohorts, Sasami emerged from the haze to an eager and adoring audience. Supporting her new album Squeeze, she took a nü-metal change-of-pace with a live band consisting of members of Barishi. From climbing on the drumset and her bandmates to writhing on the floor, the multi-instrumentalist proved to be a terrifying and infectious rocker whose talents far exceed her indie street cred.
Some highlights of her larger-than-life set were her thunderous rendition of System of a Down’s “Toxicity” and her screaming duet with dear friend Laetitia Tamko of Vagabon to pummeling single “Skin a Rat.” A memorable end to the night, she took everyone to church with her gorgeous album closer “Not A Love Song.” Sasami’s staggering live shows carry an infectious power that needs to be seen to be believed. To witness her in the flesh is to be graced by her Midas touch.
Take a look at some more moments from the night below. As always, we’ll see you at the next gig!
SASAMI
ZULU
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